The Silenced Voices of MST podcast empowers MST survivors with resources, community, and better access to healing. Our mission is to break the silence surrounding Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and empower survivors to share their stories. This groundbreaking podcast sheds light on the untold experiences within our Armed Forces community, both among service members, veterans, and their loved ones. MST can happen to anyone, regardless of their age, rank, race, physical strength, or gender. Join us as we amplify the voices of survivors, raise awareness about MST, and spark crucial conversations for change. Our content includes MST survivor interviews, offering resources, and nurturing a community that truly understands trauma. Subscribe to our show, leave a review, and be part of a movement that creates a brighter future for all who have served. You are not alone. Together, we can make a difference.
Visit: https://www.silencedvoicesmst.com
Social media: bio.site/silencedvoicesmst
The Silenced Voices of MST podcast empowers MST survivors with resources, community, and better access to healing. Our mission is to break the silence surrounding Military Sexual Trauma (MST) and empower survivors to share their stories. This groundbreaking podcast sheds light on the untold experiences within our Armed Forces community, both among service members, veterans, and their loved ones. MST can happen to anyone, regardless of their age, rank, race, physical strength, or gender. Join us as we amplify the voices of survivors, raise awareness about MST, and spark crucial conversations for change. Our content includes MST survivor interviews, offering resources, and nurturing a community that truly understands trauma. Subscribe to our show, leave a review, and be part of a movement that creates a brighter future for all who have served. You are not alone. Together, we can make a difference.
Visit: https://www.silencedvoicesmst.com
Social media: bio.site/silencedvoicesmst
In this episode, Rachelle Smith speaks with Mark Heather and Michael O'Connor from Miracles Asia, a rehabilitation and recovery center in Thailand that supports U.S. veterans struggling with addiction and mental health issues.
They discuss the founding of Miracles Asia, the unique approach to treatment that includes a holistic and community-focused model, and the importance of addressing both addiction and underlying trauma. Michael shares his personal journey as a combat veteran coping with addiction and the transformation the program had on his life.
For veterans seeking help, Michael and Mark illustrate the power of community and the comprehensive therapeutic methods employed at Miracles Asia.
For a trauma informed episode summary, please visit our blog: www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog/veteran-addiction-treatment-for-ptsd-and-military-sexual-trauma-mark-heather-and-michael-oconnor
To see this episode on YouTube, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wyq78BfAUgc
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Miracles Asia and Personal Journeys
01:58 Why Seeking Help is Difficult for Veterans
04:50 Michael's Transformation due to Miracles Asia's Program
07:08 What Sets Miracles Asia Apart From Other Rehabs
09:29 Expanding Their Program to More Veterans
12:17 Michael Shares His Experience with EMDR Treatment
14:33 The New Coping Tools for a Healthy Life
16:35 The Prevalence of Sexual Trauma in Veteran Recovery Stories
19:26 A Special Message for Veterans Who Might Be Struggling
20:29 Part 2: Miracles Asia Preview
Ron Carter talks about his book, The Monster Inside of Me, and what influenced him to write and how writing it was a cathartic process, offering insights into his personal struggles and the path to healing. He also shares how surprised he was to find out that publishers were reluctant to share his story as a male survivor, even though the book addresses a hidden part of military culture and how he was able to overcome it.
Help us keep this podcast going, by donating: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=MFH7L7Z8KJH3W
For a full episode summary with trigger warnings and resources, please visit, our blog: www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog/ron-carter-mission-for-survivors-part-3-the-silenced-voices-of-mst
Army veteran Ron Carter shares his journey from deciding to join the Army to his experiences in basic training, getting stationed in Germany, and the premeditated attack that resulted in military sexual trauma. He discusses the impact of these experiences on his mental health, the misconceptions surrounding PTSD, and the need for young people and their parents to know what could possibly happen if they choose to serve.
Help us keep this podcast going, by donating: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=MFH7L7Z8KJH3W
Full resources and trigger warnings are available on the blog: www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog/military-sexual-trauma-and-the-monster-inside-of-me-ron-carter-part-1-the-silenced-voices-of-mst-with-rachelle-smith
Epsiode Resources:
In Part 2, Ron Carter shares his harrowing experiences with military sexual trauma and the long journey of healing that followed. He discusses the systemic issues within the military regarding sexual assault, the importance of sharing stories, and the various therapeutic approaches he has explored, including psychedelics. The dialogue emphasizes the need for accountability, the power of connection, and the ongoing struggle to change societal perceptions surrounding trauma and shame.
Help us keep this podcast going, by donating: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=MFH7L7Z8KJH3W
Full resources and trigger warnings are available on the blog: https://www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog/military-sexual-trauma-and-letting-go-of-repressed-pain-ron-carter-part-2-the-silenced-voices-of-mst-with-rachelle-smith
Takeaways
Rachelle Smith speaks with U.S. Air Force veteran Lakeydra Houston about her experience of Military Sexual Trauma while stationed in Korea. She explains how the culture of heavy drinking and peer pressure made service members vulnerable, how trafficking operated inside the ranks, and how systemic betrayal deepened her trauma. Despite these challenges, Lakeydra has become an advocate for survivors and reform.
This episode points out the intersection of Military Sexual Trauma, alcohol culture in Korea, trafficking within the Air Force, and the enduring fight for survivor justice. Lakeydra’s experience is a rallying call to action. Her story exposes institutional betrayal, the hidden crisis of trafficking, and the devastating effects of unaddressed complex traumas. But take this to heart. Her story is an example of the almost miraculous healing power of support and community. Lakeydra’s journey reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there is still a dawn.
Resources from this episode:
Full Episode Notes & Full Resource List Here:
Read the trauma-informed summary, chapter breakdowns, and complete resource list on our blog: https://www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog/military-sexual-trauma-lakeydra-houston-part2
Support and Community:
Host Rachelle Smith sits down with U.S. Air Force veteran Lakeydra Houston to discuss her experience of Military Sexual Trauma at her first duty station. Lakeydra shares how harassment escalated into assault, how alcohol became a coping mechanism, and how a lack of mental health support left her isolated. She also describes the retaliation and silence that compounded the trauma.
Resources
Full Episode Notes
Read the trauma-informed summary, chapter breakdowns, and resource list on our blog:
https://www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog/military-sexual-trauma-lakeydra-houston-part1
Support and Community
It's not just silence — it’s all we have left of those who were never heard.
This is for them. 22 minutes. No commentary. No music. Just space — for grief, for memory, for resolve to take better care of our current and future veterans.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Sexual Assault Awareness Month
00:29 The Impact of Military Sexual Trauma
24:14 Closing Reflections and Community Support Resources:
Need help processing or want to share your story? Join our supportive community on Facebook:The Advocates of MST
☎️ SA Support for the DoD Community, contact the DoD Safe Helpline:
Rachelle Smith speaks with U.S. Air Force veteran MSTy about the long-term impact of surviving Military Sexual Trauma. She explains how unresolved trauma shaped her daily life, from panic attacks and dissociation to chronic physical pain. She also describes how books, pets, gratitude practices, and supportive relationships helped her endure years of isolation and slowly build stability.
Many ignore the lasting toll of Military Sexual Trauma and the ways survivors cope over decades. MSTy’s experience shows how connection and small daily choices can become lifelines when formal support is absent. It is never too late to begin healing and that survivors are not broken, no matter how much time has passed.
This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, The Silenced Voices of MST may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This helps support our work and advocacy.
Resources from this episode:
MSTy’s MST Crime Map: https://mstmap.com/
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale
The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael Alan Singer
Full Episode Notes & Full Resource List Here:
Read the trauma-informed summary, chapter breakdowns, and complete resource list on our blog: https://www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog//military-sexual-trauma-msty-survival-part3
Support and Community:
Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1
DoD Safe Helpline: https://www.sapr.mil/dod-safe-helpline
Join our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theadvocatesofmst
The Silenced Voices of MST is produced with the help of listeners around the world. We need your help. Donate today to help us continue to share these stories and demand accountability.
In this conversation, MSTy explains the complexities of Military Sexual Trauma (MST), exploring her personal experiences with coping, education, and healing, the creation of a mapping initiative to document and share survivor stories, and the importance of raising awareness and accountability within the military community. MSTy shares her journey of healing, the challenges faced in navigating life after military service, and the significance of creating a platform for survivors to share their stories and experience.
For a full episode summary, visit The Silenced Voices Blog Post| If Victims Were Afraid Then, Predators Should Worry Now (MSTy’s Story | Part 2) We highly recommend visiting the blog if you find it difficult to hear stories of trauma or mental health struggles. The blog gives an extensive trauma-informed overview of the episode's contents, as well as a list of potentially triggering content timestamps.
Don’t forget. This conversation matters. MSTy showed immense courage by telling her story. Please help us make sure her voice travels further: Leaving a written review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts helps elevate the visibility of the show for more survivors suffering in isolation and pain. A simple review can change another person’s life forever. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to MSTy's Map Initiative
02:53 MSTy's Personal Reflections on Trauma and Healing
06:09 Navigating Life After Military Service
08:47 The Impact of MST and the Need for Awareness
12:09 Creating the MST Map: A Collective Effort
14:59 The Power of Sharing Stories and Data
17:58 Challenges in Raising Awareness
21:01 The Importance of Accountability and Support
Trigger Warning Timestamps
12:54 - Mention of Vanessa Guillén
13:06 - Mentions of dissociation/mental health struggle
13:22 - Compensation and Pay Exam
13:45 - Mentions of Complex PTSD/mental health struggle
15:10<...
MST y shares her journey from a military upbringing to her experiences in the Marine Corps, illustrating the challenges she faced as a young woman in a male-dominated environment. She discusses the impact of harassment, the struggle for identity, and the long-term effects of her experiences on her life after service.
Trigger Warning
timestamp 07:19 - 12:48: SA details, freezing, victim blaming, self-blame, derogatory words towards women, predatory behavior by older men
timestamp 20:41 - 26:20: harassment, dehumanization, explicit s*x acts, coercion, bribery, alcohol/drugging, lost memory, waking up alone, victim blaming
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Misty's Journey
03:04 Family Background and Military Influence
05:58 Joining the Marine Corps
08:47 Experiences at Boot Camp and Initial Duty Station
12:12 Challenges Faced as a Female Marine
15:03 Coping Mechanisms and Identity
18:01 Reflections on Individuality in the Military
21:32 Navigating Early Experiences in the Military
24:52 Confronting Trauma and Its Aftermath
In Part 3, Brian discusses his experiences with meditation as a healing tool, the lessons he learned from his struggles, and the need for systemic change within the military culture. He emphasizes the importance of speaking out and finding support, encouraging others to share their stories and seek help. Click here to read the full episode summary. Click here to read the full episode summary.
Trigger warning: (07:30 - 11:00)
Acronyms:
BCNR: Board for Corrections of Naval Records
Resources:
Visit Brian’s Website: 8Bmedia.com
Read More: GQ Article on Male R_pe in the Military
Need help processing or want to share your story? Join our supportive community on Facebook: The Advocates of MST
National SA Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
Michael Sealey’s Guided Meditations: YouTube Channel
Cal Melkez’s Sleep Meditations: YouTube Channel
If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call the Veterans Crisis Line: 988, then 1
In Part 2, Brian shares what life was like after being dishonorably discharged from the Marine Corps and failing to receive any help because of his discharge. He discusses what it was like trying to cope with alcohol and promiscuity during college and then having his mental health fall apart while in a corporate role. His life changes when he stumbles across an article from GQ that told the stories of men who had the same experiences.
To read an episode summary, visit: www.silencedvoicesmst.com/blog/surviving-assault-secrets-the-stunning-repercussions-for-men-that-speak-up-96g2g
Trigger warning (3:35 - 25:37) in-depth article of male survivors of MST and their emotional pain and life struggles, trying to navigate the lengthy legal process and changing discharge status, having to explain discharge status to others/re-traumatization, mentions of drug use and misconduct resulting from MST, alcohol abuse, promiscuity, mental health struggles, flashbacks
Acronyms:
NVLSP: National Veterans Legal Service Providers
NDRB: Naval Discharge Review Board
BCNR: Board for Corrections of Naval Records
Resources
Brian’s Website – https://www.8Bmedia.com
GQ Article: https://www.gq.com/story/male-rape-in-the-military
Join The Advocates of MST Facebook Support Group: https://www.facebook.com/theadvocatesofmst
If you are in crisis or need immediate support, contact the Veterans Crisis Line, Dial 988, then press 1
In this episode, Brian shares his journey from Marine Corps infantryman to survivor of sexual trauma and PTSD. He opens up about the life-changing incident that led to his struggles with mental health, the isolation he faced after speaking up, and the hurdles in finding help. Brian’s courage to share his story brings to light the often overlooked experiences of male survivors.
Trigger warning (12:11 - 24:39): SA, drug use, alcohol use, reporting process, STD testing, domestic violence, CSA, dealing with law enforcement, weapons, MEB process, isolation, harassment, bullying
Resources:
Brian’s Website: 8Bmedia.com
Read the full Show Notes blog post here: Surviving Assault Secrets: The Stunning Repercussions For Men That Speak Up
Need help processing this episode or want to talk? Join us at The Advocates of MST Facebook group for support.
Chapters:
00:00 From Musician to Marine
08:01 Surviving Assault in the Military
13:24 Harassment and Bullying Begins At Duty Station
15:15 Busted by the San Diego Police
16:59 The Medical Evaluation Board Process
19:21 Challenges in Finding Help And Discharge
Emily Bernath, an author and advocate, shares her journey of faith, healing, and finding purpose after experiencing SA and finding herself at her lowest point. She discusses the challenges of writing about her trauma and the importance of including the personal element in her books. Emily also talks about her faith and how it played a role in her healing process.
She emphasizes the need for society to break the stigma around sexual assault and believe survivors. The conversation touches on the experiences of military spouses and the systemic issues they face when reporting domestic violence. Overall, Emily's story highlights the power of finding truth, healing, and purpose after trauma. In this conversation, Emily discusses her journey as a survivor of sexual assault and her advocacy work. She emphasizes the importance of finding peace and forgiveness in order to heal and regain control over one's life. Emily also talks about her involvement with the Reveal to Heal International nonprofit, which aims to create safe spaces for survivors to share their stories. She shares her experiences with speaking engagements and the challenges of navigating the military culture as a survivor.
Emily hopes to continue making an impact through her advocacy work and plans to write a fourth book focused on advocacy.
Resources:
Emily’s Website: https://www.emilybernathauthor.com/books/
Reveal to Heal International: https://revealtohealinternational.com/
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:09 Loss of Relationships and Isolation
08:27 Faith and Relationship with God
12:30 Writing and Publishing Journey
15:47 Finding Truth and Purpose
19:41 Challenges in Responding to Sexual Assault Reports
23:39 The Importance of Taking Action and Supporting Survivors
27:22 The Role of Spirituality in Healing
30:39 Creating Safe Spaces for Survivors
31:35 Navigating Trust and Relationships
33:04 Emily's Involvement in Advocacy
35:25 The Impact of Sexual Assault in the Military
36:54 Challenges of the Military Culture
38:02 Toxic Influences and the Future
41:03 Emily's Future Plans and...
Kimberly Henry shares her past transformation from Navy veteran to social worker as shares her story of joining the Navy and the challenges she faced during her service. She discusses her experiences in basic training, her deployments, and the traumatic events she encountered.
We discuss the importance of coping skills such as writing, journaling, and meditation. She also introduces her empowerment journal, Warriors Path to Healing, designed for women veterans who have experienced trauma.
She shares her personal experience with inner child work and the impact it had on her healing journey. Kimberly provides guidance on how family members and friends can support survivors of assault or harassment. She also discusses the significance of prevention and policy changes in addressing these issues.
Support/Resources:
The Gold Beacon: https://www.thegoldbeacon.com/
The Warrior's Path to Healing: https://www.thegoldbeacon.com/product-page/warrior-s-path-to-healing-a-12-week-empowerment-journal-for-women-veterans
Glass Soldier: https://www.glasssoldier.org/
Psych Armor: https://psycharmor.org/
Share your story at here. If you prefer to remain anonymous, visit our website for more information on how to share your story confidentially.
No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.
If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources:
Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1
NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience. (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=JQJNN32TP3K2L)
1620 Pablo is well-versed in alternate methods of medication. Pablo shares his experience using plant medicine, specifically cannabis and CBD, to deal with mental health obstacles and physical injuries.
1620 Pablo also emphasizes the need for better care and support for veterans within the VA system. while sharing his journey with cannabis and advocacy in the state of Florida. He discusses his involvement in fighting against restrictive hemp bills and the importance of small businesses in the industry. 1620 Pablo explains the difference between THC and CBD and the various benefits of different cannabinoids.
Additionally, he highlights the issue of military sexual trauma (MST) and the need for support and resources for survivors. 1620 Pablo emphasizes the importance of post-traumatic growth and the collective effort needed to address mental health issues and reduce suicide rates among veterans and the wider community.
MST Task Force Puerto Rico: https://www.benefits.va.gov/sanjuan/
The Centre: https://www.thecentrespb.com/
Battle Buds: https://www.battlebudsusa.com/
Mike Minardi: https://minardilaw.com/
Tu Canna: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=amnQPWPXVQw
Chillum: https://chillumdispensary.com/
Share your story at here. If you prefer to remain anonymous, visit our website for more information on how to share your story confidentially.
No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.
If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources:
Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1
NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience. (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=JQJNN32TP3K2L)
Link to RAND Research: https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RBA1013-1.html
Michael Hineline, owner of Float Brothers Float Spa in Destin, Florida, discusses the benefits and experience of float therapy. He shares the origins of float therapy, the anti-gravity environment created by the high concentration of Epsom salt, and the benefits of floating in a sensory deprivation tank. Michael explains how float therapy can be customized to individual preferences and how it can be used as a tool for mental health and self-care.
Michael and Rachelle discuss the positive impact of float therapy on active duty military personnel and veterans, as well as the nonprofit initiatives aimed at providing free floats to those with PTSD. Michael emphasizes the importance of letting go and finding balance in life. He takes us through the process of a float spa experience, from the initial logistics to the first float and subsequent sessions. He explains the filtration and sterilization process to ensure a clean and safe environment.
Takeaways
To Learn More Visit:
Share your story at info@silencedvoicesmst.com. If you prefer to remain anonymous, visit our website for more information on how to share your story confidentially.
No material on this podcast is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified and licensed physician or other medical care provider, and follow their advice.
If you are experiencing thoughts of harming yourself or others, please contact 911 or any of the following resources:
Veterans Crisis Line - 988, then press 1
NAMI - 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
Your generosity helps us cover hosting costs, improve production quality, and bring you even more stories of hope and resilience. (https://www.paypal.com/donate/?campaign_id=JQJNN32TP3K2L)
In this episode of "The Big Voice," Rachelle Smith discusses five critical news stories related to military sexual trauma (MST) and the broader implications within the military culture. She emphasizes the importance of accountability and systemic change. The stories include the court-martial of Maj. Gen. Phillip Stewart, sexual assault cases in Okinawa, the lawsuit by Joint Base Lewis-McChord servicemen against a military doctor, a Navy sailor charged with murder while out on bond, and T.I. and Tiny seeking dismissal of rape claims from an Air Force veteran.
Sources:
1. [Two-Star General’s Court-Martial]
(https://taskandpurpose.com/news/two-star-court-martial-consent/)
2. [Okinawa Sexual Assault Cases]
(https://taskandpurpose.com/news/okinawa-sexual-assault-cases/)
3. [Army Didn’t Protect Troops]
4. [Navy Sailor Accused of Murdering Texas Woman]
5. [T.I. and Tiny Seek Dismissal]
Supporting Information:
1. [What is Consent?]
(https://care.ucr.edu/education/what-is-consent)
2. [Army Culture and Consent]
3. [Military Times PDF]
(https://s3.amazonaws.com/static.militarytimes.com/assets/pdfs/1646756472.pdf)
4. [NotAllMen]
(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NotAllMen)
5. [Denise Lissette Ramos Case]
6. [Float Brothers]
Cheryl Mullick, a member of Pave USA, discusses the process of placing service dogs with handlers who have severe PTSD from military sexual trauma (MST). The organization trains dogs to work with handlers who have various disabilities, including epilepsy, diabetes, and PTSD. The screening process for applicants is detailed and includes requirements such as an honorable discharge from the military, a disability rating from the VA, and current treatment for PTSD. The dogs are trained to detect specific scents related to the handler's condition, such as hormones associated with panic attacks or nightmares. The bond between the handler and the dog is crucial, and the organization provides ongoing support and training for the lifetime of the dog. Service dogs play a crucial role in supporting veterans with disabilities, particularly those with PTSD. These dogs are trained to provide specific assistance based on the individual's needs, such as alerting to anxiety or nightmares. Retrievers are often the preferred breed for service dogs due to their friendly and steady nature. It is important to distinguish between emotional support animals and service dogs, as the latter have public access privileges and are trained to mitigate specific disabilities. The bond between a veteran and their service dog is profound, and these dogs can sense and respond to their handler's emotions and needs.
Takeaways
- PAVE USA is an organization that places service dogs with handlers who have severe PTSD from military sexual trauma.
- The screening process for applicants includes requirements such as an honorable discharge from the military, a disability rating from the VA, and current treatment for PTSD.
- The dogs are trained to detect specific scents related to the handler's condition, such as hormones associated with panic attacks or nightmares.
- The bond between the handler and the dog is crucial, and the organization provides ongoing support and training for the lifetime of the dog. Service dogs are trained to provide specific assistance to veterans with disabilities, such as alerting to anxiety or nightmares.
- Retrievers are often the preferred breed for service dogs due to their friendly and steady nature. - It is important to distinguish between emotional support animals and service dogs, as the latter have public access privileges and are trained to mitigate specific disabilities.
- The bond between a veteran and their service dog is profound, and these dogs can sense and respond to their handler's emotions and needs.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:07 Cheryl's Background in Animal Training
06:07 The Process of Getting a Service Dog
09:18 Requirements and Screening Process
12:42 The Bond Between Handler and Dog
15:36 Training Service Dogs: Specific Tasks
24:00 The Magic Between Dog and Person
27:57 The Incredible Abilities of Dogs
30:52 Introduction to Service Dogs for Veterans
42:20 Training and Qualities of Service Dogs
44:16 Difference Between Emotional Support Animals and Service Dogs
48:04 Heartwarming Stories of Service Dogs Transforming Lives
57:17 How to Get Involved and Support PAVE 01:00:09 Closing Remarks and Call to Action